Wk 4 Comment- Stacie's blog

With privilege comes responsibility. As I read through chapter 10, “Being the Board,” I couldn’t let go of the previous phrase. Suddenly I feel like Rosamund and Benjamin Zander lost their minds and went into a euphoric, completely unrealistic state of thought and writing. If I step into my car, and enjoy the privilege of driving, I expect other drivers to do so as well. Of Course I am taking a risk that there are idiots out there who won’t comply, but that doesn’t mean they shouldn’t be held accountable. I understand the author’s viewpoint is on removing the blame because it leaves us powerless, but their example was full of faulty reasoning. While many of his points were geared toward the act of mistakes in trivial moments, he seemed to mistake the power of a legal system and holding to a law abiding standard with blame. While obviously an accusation must occur in order for justice to be brought, for the person in the hospital who has just been rear ended, it would be ludicrous to think they wouldn’t want justice to be served. Otherwise the drunk driver would continue to get behind the wheel after drinking.

Ms. Woods' Exploration Station said...

Stacie,
Thank you! I couldn't put my finger on why I felt uncomfortable about these chapters, and I state it in my blog. This one statement made it all clear, "declaring yourself as your own God". When I make myself the board who is holding me accountable? I have no problem taking responsibility for my actions. However, I believe God has the final say.

Wk 4 Comment- Amanda's blog

Being responsible for everything that happens in your life. Many times when something happens in our lives we want to push the blame off on someone else but in reality we need to be responsible enough to take the good or bad that comes with everything that happens in our lives.

Ms. Woods' Exploration Station said...

Amanda, great insight on "making all the moves" when you become the board. It is still an area I am uncomfortable with, because that means when something "bad" happens I have to look at myself first.

Wk 4-Publishing

I wonder if we are allowed to choose any additional sites for possible publication. I say this because of the ones listed, there are only two sites that have a broad enough scope for my article to considered. I am thinking of publishing with the Journal of Educational Technology & Society or Edutopia. Both sites have enough flexibility that my article can fall under categories not specific to technology use. Although, I used technology in my action research, it was not the main focus of the research, which quickly eliminated many of the other possible sites for publication.

Wk 4 Reading Activity- Chapters 10-12

The concepts presented in chapters 10-12 were a bit harder for me to grasp. I get being a player in the game, or a contributor, but actually becoming the "board". Wow, that takes a real sense of letting go. I am uneasy even as I type this blog (recognizing the calculating self at work). I think it's because in order to become the board it requires a complete release. And to my calculating self I would be losing something, not sure what, yet still unsure about taking the risk. I'm kind of glad that there is something in this book that presents a challenge to me. I read the other chapters thinking, "I got this down packed" only to find out there's more to this thing than the initial steps. This phase is where true application takes place.

Wk 3- Free Choice

Bittersweet is the word that comes to mind. So much to do! Graduation slip, AR Status, Publishing, and let's add lesson plans, committee meetings, department chairs meetings, faculty meetings, and sponsor clubs. Something is wrong with the world when I am working in my classroom on a Saturday! I take it all in stride though. To whom much is given...

Why am I so grade obsessed? I just realized that I check FSO for grades entirely too much. I almost felt like my students when they ask about what grade they made on a test or project. I think this is one of the most random blogs I have posted since beginning this journey. It's probably do to my mind being in 400,000,000,000,000,000,000,000,000,000,000,000,000 places LOL! (I made a funny).

Wk 3 Comment- Abbie's blog

The reading for this week really hit home, because it talked about something I really have trouble with: Being present in the moment. I often find myself worrying about tomorrow or trying to change the past - when I need to let go of all the resistance in my mind and just be in the here and now. I know my life would be more stressfree if I could begin doing this in my day-to-day existence.

Ms. Woods' Exploration Station said...

Abbie,
I have to focus on being present as well. It is easy to get caught up in the next move instead of truly enjoying what is unfolding, be it positive or negative. Mistakes...how fascinating! lol

Wk 3 Comment-Stacie's blog

As I read this book, I have to shake my head and laugh. I’ve read these concepts before. They are beautiful and positive; just what a downtrodden, negative world needs to hear. Then it hits me. Oh ya…this is all biblical truth. Yes. These are biblical principals spoken throughout the bible by Jesus himself. Take for example the 4 practices for chapter 9, “Lighting a Spark.” Every one of these principles is about investing positive life into others.

Ms. Woods' Exploration Station said...

Stacie,
I enjoyed the discussion on downward spiral conversations and conversations of possibilities as well. It's about getting the spark back and keeping it light so that we can affect the world around us. Brings to mind the children's sunday school song "This Little Light of Mine".

Wk 3 Reading Activity- Chapters 7-9

In this world of competitiveness it is easy to fall into the trap of winner v. loser. I felt that forgiving someone was admitting that what they did was ok. I was one that had to make it known that I am right and you are wrong. This strategy was not particularly successful with my sister, especially because she was a stubborn as me. I soon realized that it took too much energy to walk around upset over petty things, even if I wasn't at fault (my calculating self). The lesson that popped out while reading these chapters illustrated that. Recognizing things as the way they are does not mean you are accepting of the situation; you just look at the situation for what it is. I truly appreciated the part on distinguishing downward spiral conversations and conversations of possibility.

Wk 2 Free Choice

What happens after graduation? I have a strong feeling I'm going to miss the hectic pace of having a new course every month and not knowing what to expect from the instructor. I have an uncontrollable drive to make a bigger impact than I have ever in my life. Attending Full Sail has awakened a determination and confidence that I knew was there, but hesitated to indulge. I feel as though I should shout from a mountain top, "LOOK OUT, HERE I COME!" I am a ball of excitement, nervousness, and relief all in one.

Wk 2 Reading Chapters 3-6

I must admit reading chapters 3-6 reminded me of what I already do. The main thing that stood out during this reading was the Rule Number 6. I am pleased that I started incorporating this rule shortly after finishing the first semester of undergraduate. After being stressed out about finals and taking EVERYTHING entirely too seriously, I went on Christmas break with a new determination that I would never put myself through that type of torture again. In essence life is too short. I believe this attitude is one reason why the science department, which I chair, is one of the most "drama-free" departments in my school. I'm glad to know I'm on the right track.

Wk 2 Comment - Quinn Brown

Success and failure is hard concept that not even I have mastered. I am far from it. As a student in school I knew the feeling of success and I stressed myself out to remain successful. I should have seen my success and my accomplishments as a chance to think outside of the box or take a risk. However, I saw it as a trap. I think that students are not able to escape the rules that have been set for the game of failure and success. In school students often see success and failure in a black and white perspective. They never see it in shades of grey, which they should. They don’t see the room they have to improve. They box themselves up in a failure or successful category. Zander & Zander (2000) mention contribution in Chapter 1. In the classroom students should contribute what they can to the overall learning experience. Contribution will turn into growth and growth will eventually turn into success.

Shanna Woods

Quinn,
I feel you on the not mastering success and failure. Imagine getting the first C (in my life) in grad school. Yeah, it was month 2! I realize now that I was not a contributor yet. And I almost allowed that feeling to defeat me to the point of thinking about leaving the EMDT program. So, glad I didn't. And a healthy dose of Rule Number 6 didn't hurt.

Wk 2 Comment- Thourn Heng

To answer this question from the reading, we need to give the people we teach, coach, lead, and/or conduct a voice. Good leaders are good listeners who are not afraid to admit when they are at fault. When followers see that their leader is not too proud to admit when they are wrong, they see the humility of that leader. A humble leader is not always directing his or her subordinates. He or she must also be a good listener and give their followers a chance to express what they observe through their eyes. Keeping an open mind is what keeps a good leader from being clouded by the things they experience and perceive. Also, good leaders let someone else shine a different light on the same situation.

Ms. Woods' Exploration Station said...

Everyone has a need to feel validated and valued whether they speak up about it or not. It is easy for the "big wigs" to look down on those they supervise which causes undesired tension. This tension can be alleviated if we get rid of the big I, little u syndrome.

Wk 1- Free Choice

Month 11 Expectations

I can't believe I'm in month 11 already. It seems as though I was just enrolling in Full Sail University a few weeks ago. Now I'm looking forward to graduation. This month I am feeling more pressure than I have felt the entire time I have been in the program. I guess it's because now I'm really down to the wire. This month will be focused on accurately populating my AR website. With the hustle and bustle of months past it's easy to get behind. I am determined to get this thing right. I will not accept any hold ups on graduation. My eyes are on the finish line. October 1, 2010 HERE I COME!

Wk 1 Comment- Pedro

I must confess, at first I was really reluctant to read the book. I was stuck in a dilemma of whether to skim or read. I am so glad I decided to read; The Art of Possibility, really is an art. As I was reading this book I was confused, amused and enlighten all at once.

Ms. Woods' Exploration Station said...

I completely understand your reluctance to reading the book. Surprisingly, I was impressed with the reading as well. It's funny how we put limits on ourselves without realizing that we have.

Link to Pedro's blog: vote4pedro2ice.blogspot.com

Wk 1 Comment- Thourn Heng

My thoughts and actions are a reflection of the measurement world because I grew up very competitive. For example, what is the grade that every student wants to earn because it is the highest grade? Of course you already know the answer. We grow in a world where intelligence is measured by numbers (percentage) and richness is measured by accumulation of “stuff.” (I am referring to stuff as property, money, cars, etc.) It is very hard to step out of the competitive educational expectation, because it is “all invented” for us to be aggressive and competitive by nature.

Ms. Woods' Exploration Station said...

Thourn, I think it's second nature for us (humans) to measure ourselves against one another. However, this is unfair to those who do not perform at our level. This strategy also backfires whenever someone out performs us. I agree with Lizzie in that we as educators have to find other ways to measure success.

Link to Thourn's blog: coach2win-macblog.blogspot.com

Wk1 Reading- The Art of Possibility Ch.1-3

Reading chapters 1-3 of The Art of Possibility produced a variety of emotions. I did not realize how much I look at the world with preconceived ideas. It is difficult to let go of that mind set. If I am not measuring myself against my classmates in this EMDT program, then I'm measuring my students against standards that I have set that I believe they should achieve. I have found that I have an imaginary measuring stick and I use it in all aspects of my life, not to exclude church. Yes, I said church. If someone sings a song and gets a rousing reaction, then I have to top that. I am constantly reminding myself that I am not "So and So". I do not have to do things like or better than them. The funny thing is, I tell my students not to judge themselves according to what someone else does or thinks, and I do it.

I was very impressed with "giving an A". I understand the concept of taking the limits off. However, there is a thin line between unleashing potential and encouraging mediocrity. This concept is a very powerful one when used correctly. It falls in line with the motto for my classroom: Each day is a new one, so let's begin again. Fear of past failures seem to cripple some, while opening up a new door for others. I am encouraged to look at failures and disappointments as not being negative, but as a learning tool.

Wk 4 Project- Future Report

The future of LMS

Wk 4 Udutu Project

My experience with Udutu was interesting. I found using the basic screens worked better for me. After much trial and error and accidental deletions I was finally able to produce a project that I am pleased with. My Udutu project teaches the layers of the atmosphere. It is geared towards my lower functioning special needs students. I was pleased with being able to upload a previously created Flash project. The simple formatting contributed to a less stressful experience.

Here is the link to my Udutu Project:

http://publish.myudutu.com/published/launcheval/21562/Course39276/Launch.html

Wk 4 Comment-Sarah's Udutu project

Here is the link to my comment on Sarah's Udutu Project:

http://web.me.com/sarahmhodge/LMO_Month10/Welcome.html

Sarah, I enjoyed viewing your project. The upbeat section was my favorite. I liked how you interjected an assessment early in the project. Great job!

Wk 4 Comment- Quinn's Udutu project

Here is the link to my comment on Quinn's Udutu project

http://web.me.com/qlbrown/LMO_10/Week_4/Entries/2010/7/30_Wk4_Udutu_Project.html

SHANNA WOODS

Quinn, wonderful job supporting your Action Research project. I stated before that I am glad you have been able to use social networks to get the word out about dance. The benefits are endless, you never know who you're able to reach.

Wk 4 Comment-Thourn's Udutu

Here is the link to my comment on Thourn's Udutu project:

http://coach2win-lmoblog.blogspot.com/2010/07/wk4-udutu-project.html

Ms. Woods' Exploration Station said...

Thourn, THANK YOU, THANK YOU, THANK YOU, for your Udutu Geometry lesson. I will definitely be subscribing. Your teaching style is easy to understand. If I had you for a teacher in high school I probably wouldn't feel the way I do about math. I was so excited to get them correct.

Wk3 Comments

LMS Choice

Before selecting a Learning Management System, an organization should go through a process to ensure they have selected the most effective and cost efficient choice. “Every organization’s requirements for a learning management system differ. Once you have made the decision to implement an LMS, the next step is to analyze your needs” (The Academy, 2010, p.1). Analyzing the needs helps to narrow down the selection process.

Shanna Woods

There are many things that have to be taken into consideration when choosing or deciding to create an LMS. This article let's me know just how much I used to take for granted about online education. I never realized it took (or costed) so much.

Wk3 – “Tools of the Trade”

As our technology advance and our aesthetic needs grow, producers of e-learning environments must enhance their product to have more functions and look more pleasing. There are many tools that are used to build, or in other words author, e-learning environments. Just like how carpenters use many hardware tools to build a product, e-learning developers also use many software tools to make their product.

Ms. Woods' Exploration Station said...

Reading this article brings to mind the phrase, "Jack of all trades". It is impressive how much a developer needs to know. I am a huge fan of delegation lol.

Sources:

LMS Choice. Sarah Hodge. Retrieved July 25, 2010

Tools of the Trade. Thoug Heng. Retrieved July 25, 2010

Wk 3 Reading Activity-New CMS Directions

An intelligent tutoring system is any computer system that provides direct customized instruction or feedback to students, i.e. without the intervention of human beings, whilst performing a task (Wikipedia, 2010). With learning continually becoming more self-paced it is only a matter of time before technology advances to accommodate those needs. Amid the rising tide of expectations, instructors are exploring innovative ways to use technology to foster interaction, collaboration, and excitement for learning (Bonk & Dennen, 2005). There are several trends that are being monitored including: Social networking collaboration, application of advanced media technology, m-learning, distance education, embedded learning, and cloud computing.

Certain skills gained and practiced by gamers in massive multiplayer online gaming environments closely parallel those required by a military transforming itself to operating under the concept of network centric warfare (Bonk & Dennen, 2005). At the onset of computer gaming it was limited to single player or the gamers having to take turns. However, Jones argues that computer gaming should no longer be connoted as a solitary activity, but instead it should be considered a social endeavor involving friends, more like traditional board games (Bonk & Dennen, 2005).

What the future holds for CMS is yet unfolding. As learners take more control over what they want to know, when they want to know it, and how they want to learn it the need for CMS will definitely be affected. CMS will not become completely obsolete, however their functions will have to evolve. Technology is branching in a direction that is ever expanding. There is a management system that is emerging that has yet to be determined. Time will only tell what is in store for CMS.

Week 3 Wimba Session 3

I enjoyed viewing this week's wimba session. I am definitely one of the "artististic" people. I read some of the directions and think I have a good handle on what is expected and take off. Then I find that I need to open another screen so I can see the directions and work it through step by step. I guess that goes with being in a time where we are destination focused. I also enjoyed the deeper discussion on Udutu. I wasn't sure if I had done the first part of the assignment correctly, so I crossed my fingers and hit submit. Glad to know that what I did was correct.

Wk2 Project: Udutu Setup

1. Woods, Shanna

2. Layers of the Atmosphere. This lesson was previously created in a prior EMDT class. This lesson was created in Flash and teaches the different layers of the atmosphere and what occurs in each particular layer. This lesson was created for my special needs students who were having a hard time distinguishing the characteristics of each layer.

3. Created in Digital Media and Education Applications, March 2010

4. I have chosen to use Udutu Self Directed template. Being that this lesson was created in Flash, the convenience of going from slide to slide makes this template ideal for this lesson. The learner has the opportunity to review a particular slide for reinforcement before moving forward to the assessment. Giving the learner control of pacing will help ensure that the concept is grasped.

5. http://web.me.com/snwoods/Flash/Woods_Shanna_application2.html

Wk2 Comments

Learning Content Management System (LCMS) is a learning tool found by the military. Nichani (2001) states that “A LCMS combines the administrative and management dimensions of a traditional LMS with the content creation and personalized assembly dimensions of a CMS.” LCMS, if used properly, is a great tool to deliver and train people for specific skills within an organization. The system allows the administrator to piece together different types of learning regime for people who perform different skills. This is all possible because LMCS have building blocks called Reusable Learning Objects (RLOs). “In a LCMS, you would have libraries of RLOs that can be used either independently, or as a part of larger instruction sets.”

Ms. Woods' Exploration Station said...

Thourn, I value my time as most people do, which makes LCMS an ideal solution to training. Breaking the skills into chunks that can be accessed on a "need" basis helps effectively manage time. I have been a victim of sitting in a seminar and only needing one part, but being forced to sit through the rest because it's rude to walk out early.

Learning Content Management Systems

The different purposes of the systems can help provide the necessary factors for success. It is first important to understand the functions and purposes of such systems. The focus of this blog entry is to provide a detailed explanation of a LCMS (Learning Content Management System) and its purpose.

Shanna Woods

Sarah, it can be difficult to keep up with all of the changes technology goes through. LCMS carry a heavy load...deliver the same information to learners without being "cookie-cutterish". It does allow that information to be retrieved and manipulated for the individual learner. It's enough to make your head spin.

Sources:

The beauty of LCMS. Thourn Heng. July 18, 2010

LCMS. What are they for? Sarah Hodge. July 18, 2010

Wk2 Reading- How Much is that LMS in the Window?

The cost of LMS can be quite expensive. There are several factors that must be taken into consideration when deciding to purchase a Learning Management System or build one. The first step in cost-benefit analysis is simply to measure all of the direct and indirect costs involved in design, development, delivery, and maintenance of the program (Kruse, 2004). Determining what is needed will aid in deciding which option to choose.

Assumptions and baseline data is the first thing that needs to be determined in developing an e-learning environment. The assumptions are like a business plan checklist; including the life span of course, total number of students, student learning time in class, reduction of seat time, burdened compensation for instructor, and burdened compensation for student (Kruse, 2004). Upon completing the assumptions, the next step is determining the design and development cost, which can range from $59,560 for instructor led training to $350,000 for asynchronous e-learning (Kruse, 2004). Delivery cost is the third phase of comparison; with cost for instructor led training costing at over $1 million, where as, technology based training costs around $134,400. The fourth phase is determining administration and maintenance costs. The fifth and final phase is total cost comparison. Instructor led training can cost up to $1, 091,648 compared to $500,600 for technology based training (Kruse, 2004).

The cost of maintaining an e-learning environment is nothing to sneeze at. Depending on how large a company is, it may be more cost effective to purchase a LMS as opposed to building one. Once the comparison has been made it is easier to determine which choice is appropriate. It all comes down to, "How much are you willing to spend?"

Source:

Kruse, K. (2004). Measuring the total cost of e-learning. Articles. Retrieved July 18, 2010 from e-learningguru.com

Week 2 Wimba Session 2

This wimba session proved to be quite informative. I was a bit confused about the udutu assignment, but after reviewing the archive my questions were answered. I was under the impression that the entire assignment was due on Sunday. I am glad to know that the layout is what is due and that I can use a previously completed activity for this assignment. Thank you for going into deeper detail about the different types of management systems. Once we have received our lit review back, do we resubmit to you or just to Roxanne?

Wk1 Project: LMO Overview

When I initially saw this assignment and looked at the abbreviations CMS, LMS, LCMS, and PLEs, my head started to spin. After viewing the mindmap and watching Dr. Gibson's video my anxiety eased a bit. I am not breathing a total sigh of relief just yet. Here's my take on the "alphabet soup" of learning systems.

CMS: Course Management Systems. These systems organize courses, with focus on managing grades, registration, and placement of students in classes. It is NOT content. It is institution focused.

LMS: Learner Management System. These systems focus on individual specialization for the learner. It is based on what is specifically needed for that particular learner or small group of learners. It can be linked to CMS.

LCMS: Learning Content Management System. These systems focus on a specific skill or content that needs to be taught to a specific group of learners. The content can be broken down in to small chunks and can be used repeatedly for training.

PLEs: Personal Learning Environments. These are yet being developed and are learner centered. The learner controls what is being learned, how it will be learned, and when it is to be learned. Social networking is housed in this group. It could be responsible to eliminating LMS. However, regulation of such a system would be a big question.

Wk1Comment

E-Learning Boom


As society move from the industrial age to the information age, many aspect of society needs changing. For example, educational institutions are changing to fit the needs of more learners. Traditional education is extending beyond the classroom with e-learning online. With e-learning, many people can learn at anytime, any place, and at any pace using course management systems (CMS).

Ms. Woods' Exploration Station said...
This world is face paced and ever changing, however e-learning will never completely take the place of traditional teaching. CMS have evolved since their first introductions. I believe vendors are starting to take note of what is needed and not just producing a "bigger and better" just for the sake of producing another product. Consumers have to speak up so that these systems can be tailor made and not one size fits all.

Logging Into Learning Platforms Is Not Just About Logging In
“A learning platform is an integrated set of interactive online services that provide teachers, learners, parents and others involved in education with information, tools and resources to support and enhance educational delivery and management” (wikipedia). Learning Platforms (LP) are not a new concept. According to www.learningplatforms.info (2010), “If you have recently graduated from an university chances are that you have used a LP”. Learning platforms have an immense amount of possibilities.

SHANNA WOODS
I am glad that you pointed out that LP's are not an end all to traditional teaching. Training is definitely key in order for the platform to be used effectively. It is a wonderful way to enhance classroom teaching and engage students at the same time.

Sources:
E-Learning Boom. Thourn Heng. Retrieved July 11, 2010

Logging Into Learning Platforms Is Not Just Logging In. Quinn Brown. Retrieved July 11, 2010

Wk1 Reading Activity-May I Help You?

There is a growing concern of what the next generation of course management systems (CMS) will look like. The design, though innovating and cutting edge at the time, proved to uncover questions that had not been factored into the development. Are students being engaged in a deeper way of learning? How can a CMS be assessed? Faculty must move beyond intuitive value and explore ways the CMS permits faculty to serve the mission of engaging teaching and learning (Carmean & Brown, 2005).

As the needs of learners change, support services must be provided that take into consideration the needs of all stakeholders. In implementing technology, much responsibility for access, implementation, authentication, performance, data security, and instructional and pedagogical consulting now rests in the hands of system and instructional support services (Carmean & Brown, 2005). Often the students who have to use these modules are ignored. No more cookie cutter approach to design and tools.

Enterprise systems will grow larger and more expensive as portals features, tools, and processing power improve (Carmean & Brown, 2005). The big picture is to enhance student learning. Based on the commitment to CMS now in place across the institution, careful assessment and inquiry should help determine its value to teaching, learning, and the changes needed in higher education (Carmean & Brown, 2005). Vendors must take the time to ask, "May I help you?" and not only focus on profit.

Source:
McGee, P., Carmean, C., & Jafari, A. (2005). Course management systems for learning: Beyond accidental pedagogy. Information Science Publishing. 1-12

Week1 Wimba Session 1

I am pleased to know that in this course the discussion board will actually be used as a discussion board. Too often it has been a place of random thoughts and comments. I am grateful for the calendar layout, as well as, the table format. It keeps everything organized and gives a structured visual flow to the assignments. I must admit I used to use the dashboard as a checklist and would go down the list one by one completing things the week they were due. Thank you for shedding light on the fact that although assignments may not be due until week 4, they need to be started on before week 4.

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BP11_2010013_Linktocomment

Click here to my comment on Stacie's blog.

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Click here to my comment on Jodi's blog on Wordle.

BP9_2010013_Web2.0T3_SchoolNotes

The Web 2.0 tool that I would like to share is SchoolNotes.com. SchoolNotes.com is a tool that keeps parents, teachers, and students on the same page and right track. SchoolNotes.com is a free site that allows teachers to post what their classes will be working on, as well as, homework for the week. Once a teacher has registered, they have the capability to email parents to let them know that they are registered with SchoolNotes. To find a teacher, the parent only needs the teacher's name and the school's zip code. The teachers of the school are listed alphabetically. They simply click on their child's teacher and the page comes up. Teachers can attach worksheets, post due dates to the calendar, and create flash cards. It is very simple for students to use SchoolNotes as well. SchoolNotes.com also allows teachers to view what other teachers are doing. Another wonderful feature of SchoolNotes is that it notifies anyone subscribed to your page, via email, when the page is updated. No more wondering what was for homework or when a project is due. SchoolNotes.com is a great linking tool to keep parents informed as to what is being taught in the classroom, as well as, what assignments and/or projects are due and when they are due. There is also the email option if there are questions about anything posted on the page. Teachers receive an email titled, "You received a message from a SchoolNotes.com visitor". SchoolNotes.com is a great way to keep in contact with parents. I wish it had been available when I was a student.

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Here is the link to my comment on Amanda's blog.

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Here is the link to my comment on Jodi's blog.

BP5_2010012_Web2.0T2_Penzu

The second Web 2.0 tool I have decided to research is Penzu. Penzu is an online journal site. One factor that I am impressed with in using Penzu is the ability to keep the journal private or share with others. My students are middle schoolers and many of them have younger brothers and sisters. This online journal will allow them to express themselves without fear of little brother or sister getting to it and destroying it. Journal pages in Penzu can also be printed. There is also the option of adding a photo.
I will be incorporating Penzu in my classroom. Our school is taking part in a Science in Action Project. We recently completed our first project; which was packaging and distributing food to the homeless and low income of Columbus. I was going to have the students write essays on the experience. Now that I have discovered Penzu I want them to keep an online journal about the experiences they have while participating in the service-learning projects. Many of the students expressed that they would like to do it again. If they would like to share their journal entry, I am going to print it and have it published in the school newspaper and on our school's website. I believe this will encourage those who did not participate this time to do so next time. I will also be personally using Penzu. I will be documenting my journey of ups and downs in pursuit of this Masters. I love the fact that Penzu can be used by children and adults alike.

BP4_2010011_RSSFeeds

The 5 RSS feeds I chose to follow are:

1. White House.gov Press Office feed: As a teacher it is important to stay abreast of what is happening in our Nation and world. I chose this feed because it keeps me informed as to what is going on in the White House.

2. Upcoming Events for Columbus GA: This feed keeps me informed as to what events are happening in my local community. This feed address everything from school events, to council meetings, to local entertainment.

3. The NSTA Learning Center: I am a science teacher and this feed offers helpful tools in being successful in the classroom, as well as, how to implement the standards. It offers professional development opportunities as well.

4. National Science Education: This feed provides updated information on advances being made in the field of science. I look for the teachable moments. This feed allows me to have those moments with my students.

5. Most Recent Teach Positions: I am interested in teaching abroad. This feed lists the most recent postings of teaching opportunities to their www.teachabroad.com site.

BP3_2010011_Web2.0T1-Wordle

The Web 2.0 tool I chose to use was Wordle. Wordle allows the user to type words and the program arranges those words in different patterns. I created a collage of geology words that can be used to help my students grasp the concept of pangaea. This tool allows me to be creative in presenting vocabulary words to my students, instead of them having simple word lists.

There are several ways Wordle can be used in the classroom. The Wordle document can be enlarged and used as an interactive word wall. The students could write the definitions to the words on index cards and attach them to the correct word. I have already incorporated in my classroom a vocabulary game called "Swat". The students are divided into two teams and listen to definitions and try to swat the correct answer choice. Using Wordle will add a bit of a challenge because the students would have to locate the word in the group, being that the words are jumbled together, as opposed to having 4 multiple choice. The students can also use Wordle as an index to words they have defined or as a self review in preparing for a test.

I am glad that I found this tool and will be using it in my classroom.

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